Circumpolar Art as Icebreaker: Platform for Arctic Voices

Description Guided Tour through the Exhibition Arctic Voices: Indigenous Perspectives on Pasts, Presents and Future: The exhibition consists of two parts – one focusing on the radically changing environment, the other on the impact of colonialism on Indigenous Peoples in the Arctic. Visitors are invited to explore the rich and diverse perspectives, offering a deeper understanding of its Peoples, landscapes, and ecosystems. The first part of the exhibition focuses on the environmental crisis from an Indigenous perspective, highlighting the deep connection between nature, culture, and technology. Drawing on the wisdom of Indigenous Elders, the exhibition presents the belief that their worldviews—one that has long sought balance with the environment—holds the key to a sustainable future for humanity. As Douglas Cardinal, Métis-Blackfoot Canadian architect, concisely expresses, “The teachings of the Elders are not the teachings of the past. They are the teachings of the future.” Visitors are encouraged to reflect on the enduring relevance of these teachings in shaping a resilient and harmonious path forward for the planet. The second part of the exhibition sheds light on the enduring impact of colonialism on Indigenous Peoples while honoring their resilience, strength, and cultural revival. The artworks confront the deep-seated damage inflicted on Indigenous holistic cultures by colonial repression, including forced assimilation, marginalization, and displacement. At the same time, the exhibition celebrates the empowerment of Indigenous communities as they reclaim their identities, languages, and traditions, sparking a profound cultural resurgence. Visitors are encouraged to engage with these perspectives and reflect on the need to address both historical and current injustices, while recognizing the powerful movement of Indigenous empowerment shaping the future.

Place Museum of Contemporary Circumpolar Art, Bern, Switzerland

Date 11 January 2025 at 11:00

Project Type Guided Tour

Image Máttaráhkká / Mother Earth by Sami artist, Jo Morten Kåven

Title PIQSIQ Concert

Description With a style perpetually galvanized by darkness and haunting northern beauty, sisters Tiffany Ayalik and Inuksuk Mackay come together to create the Inuit style throat singing duo, PIQSIQ. Rooted in the Kitikmeot and Kivalliq Regions of Nunavut, Canada, the duo's music is a captivating fusion of ancient tradition and contemporary innovation. As they approached adulthood, Inuksuk and Tiffany embarked on a journey to reclaim and revitalize katajjaq, recognizing it not only as a musical expression but as a radical act of cultural resilience and decolonization. Drawing inspiration from their surroundings and personal experiences, PIQSIQ weaves intricate vocal harmonies and haunting melodies into compositions that transcend language, inviting listeners on a transformative sonic journey.

Place Museum of Contemporary Circumpolar Art, Bern, Switzerland

Date 20 February 2025, 19:00